A “shameless statement from the highest podium of the UN by a shameful puppet,” this is how MP Irakli Kirtskhalia, a member of the ruling Georgian Dream (GD) party, described Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy’s address at the 80th UN General Assembly, who has stated, “We have already lost Georgia in Europe. Human Rights and the European nature and the state system are only shrinking there.”

According to Kirtskhalia, Zelenskyy “dared to make negative remarks about Georgia and the human rights situation within our country,” but in doing so, he only offended the population remaining in his own country.

“This so-called politician has once again chosen to criticise Georgia, focusing on human rights. With this statement, he has primarily insulted his own people, the remaining population of Ukraine, many of whom are victims of forced migration and conscription. The world watches these events unfold daily: people are abducted from the streets, and many are forcibly sent to the frontlines. When speaking about human rights, he would be better advised to consider the European Commission’s assessment of our country and his own.

Before he criticises Georgia, let him examine where his country stands across various sectors: corruption, media freedom, human rights, and more. He should read the European Commission’s opinion on Georgia before daring to speak. And let him remember that other high-ranking officials from Ukraine have previously insulted Georgia by urging us to become involved in their war. This puppet needs to wash his mouth out before he dares to speak about our country,” Kirtskhalia stated.